The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced several opportunities for public engagement and comment in December. The commission emphasizes the importance of community input in its decision-making processes and encourages participation from all stakeholders.
One of the main topics open for public comment is a new rulemaking process, Proceeding No. 25R-0428T, aimed at establishing rules for the state’s Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS). This follows changes introduced by HB25-1154, which restructured how Colorado delivers communication services to individuals with disabilities. The proposed rules would create a “communication services for people with disabilities enterprise” responsible for managing TRS, coordinating auxiliary services such as sign language interpreters, and distributing necessary communications equipment.
The PUC is inviting feedback from service providers, advocacy groups, and the general public on these proposed regulations. Written comments responding to initial submissions are due by November 24. A virtual public comment hearing will be held on Monday, December 1, from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Other scheduled events include the monthly meeting of the PUC 9-1-1 Services Enterprise Board on Wednesday, December 3, from 3 PM to 4 PM via Zoom.
Additionally, there will be public hearings related to Xcel Energy’s siting permit appeals for Segment 5 of its Colorado Power Pathway project. These hearings concern proposed routes in Elbert County (Proceeding No. 25A-0354E) and El Paso County (Proceeding No. 25A-0355E). The Elbert County hearing is set for Tuesday, December 9, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Agriculture Building at Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa. The El Paso County hearing will take place on Monday, January 26, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Swink Hall at the El Paso County Fair and Events Center in Calhan.
The commission also holds regular monthly meetings where public comment is accepted both virtually and in person during its second weekly meeting each month—typically on the second Wednesday at 9 AM. Meetings are streamed live on the PUC’s YouTube page.
To submit written comments or learn more about upcoming opportunities:
– Use the Commission’s online form
– Email dora_puc_website@state.co.us
– Mail comments to Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202
– Call (303) 869-3490 to leave oral comments in English or Spanish
Requests for interpreting services in American Sign Language or Spanish should be submitted two weeks before each hearing by contacting Megan.Castle@state.co.us.
All documents related to these proceedings can be accessed through the commission’s e-filings page or by visiting https://puc.colorado.gov/puccalendar.
“The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is committed to informing and engaging the public in the matters before the Commission, and values perspectives from impacted community members, which is critical in decision-making.”
